Let's take a very simple example: maple syrup. In Quebec, the maple syrup industry has a very high profile, and we have developed a fairly complete set of specifications. It is about 15 pages long and contains criteria which determine whether Quebec's maple syrup can be considered organic. The U.S. regulations are one paragraph long. So with regard to maple syrup, we will negotiate an agreement with the United States because we don't have a choice. American maple syrup will enter Canada. The U.S. syrup will meet two criteria, whereas Quebec's maple syrup already meets 15 pages of criteria. That's what we mean when we say that we will not be able to compete. We won't be on a level playing field; there will be unfair competition.
On June 11th, 2009. See this statement in context.